Visas are required for U.S. citizens traveling to Tanzania. The U.S. Embassy recommends that U.S. citizens obtain visas before traveling to Tanzania, but visas are also available at ports of entry upon arrival.

A passport valid for a minimum of six months beyond visa issuance and/or date of entry, and at least one blank visa page is required. Visitors who enter on visas must present a roundtrip ticket and demonstrate they have sufficient funds for their stay.

Be prepared to show your passport and explain your visa status when entering or departing Zanzibar or when traveling around the mainland.

Volunteer activity – even if the traveler is paying for the opportunity – is prohibited on a tourist visa. If you plan to engage in business or commercial transactions in Tanzania, please consult with the Embassy of Tanzania in Washington, D.C. before applying for a visa.

Yellow fever vaccination is required for all travelers arriving from, or having transited through, yellow fever endemic countries. Direct arrivals from non-endemic countries, including all countries in Europe and North America, are not required to show the certificate.

Although the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that a yellow fever vaccine is only required if traveling from a yellow fever endemic country, there are reports that unless a traveler has a medical exemption letter from a physician, some immigration officials require evidence of the vaccine for entry in Tanzania; particularly entry via Zanzibar. Travelers with neither the shot nor an exemption letter are usually allowed entry and directed to a health officer to obtain the vaccine. The CDC notes that travelers staying for an extended time or those who will be heavily exposed to mosquitoes consider obtaining the vaccination before visiting Tanzania.

If a public official attempts to solicit the payment of a fine from you, ask to travel to the nearest police station to file a report regarding the incident. Obtain a receipt and a written report of any such transactions. If your passport is seized, ask for a receipt, note the officer’s name, location, and contact details and report it immediately to the U.S. Embassy.

For information on obtaining a residence permit, please contact the Tanzanian Immigration Department's Ministry for Home Affairs website or by telephone.

Dar es Salaam: +255 (0) 22 2850575/6
Zanzibar: +255 (0) 24 223 9148

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Tanzania.

Terrorist incidents, including the 1998 bombing of the U.S. Embassies in Dar es Salaam and Nairobi, as well as occasional attacks by extremists on police stations and mosques, among other targets, highlight the threat posed by terrorism in East Africa and underscore the capacity of terrorist groups to carry out such attacks against Westerners.

U.S. citizens should take precaution when traveling between Julius Nyerere International Airport and Dar es Salaam. There have been incidents of robberies while cars are stopped at traffic lights. Drivers should lock their doors and keep windows up at all times.

U.S. citizens are urged to exercise caution and stay current with media coverage of local events.

Crime: Report crimes to the closest police station and request a copy of the report to use for any insurance claims.

Muggings, Robberies, and Assaults:

Stay alert when walking on beaches, footpaths, and roads; especially on Zanzibar, in Dar es Salaam, and Arusha.

Avoid carrying a bag, wearing flashy jewelry, or using personal electronics while in public.

If you must carry a bag, hold it by the handle loosely so you can let go quickly and not be injured if someone in a passing vehicle attempts to grab it.

Do not put the strap across your chest as you can be dragged and badly injured.

If you are in a dangerous situation, hand over all your valuables immediately, comply with the demands, and do not to make eye contact with the aggressors.

We have received reports of assaults originating at the Tazara train station, Ubungo bus station, Dar es Salaam airport, the Zanzibar ferry terminal area downtown, and the Slipway on the Msasani Peninsula in Dar es Salaam.

Kidnapping Threat:

So-called ‘express kidnappings’ are not uncommon in Tanzania. Expatriates and tourists become victims when they hail taxis at airports, bus stations, hotels, or on the street. Victims are held until they provide passwords for credit/debit cards and are driven around town to max out their cards at all available Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs). Victims are usually released some hours later. A number of people have been victimized en route to the airport. To minimize risk, travelers should use marked or known modes of transport. They should also consider leaving ATM cards at home and traveling to Tanzania with a minimal number of credit cards.

If you will be spending time outside of the large cities, have sufficient cash or traveler’s checks for your trip.

Reputable financial institutions will require the bearer of a traveler’s check to present the original receipt for the checks and proof of identity before completing a transaction.

Home Invasions: U.S. citizens residing in Arusha and Dar es Salaam continually report crimes targeting the homes of expatriates. Armed home invasions usually involve some violence and some victims have been seriously injured.

If you live in Tanzania, ensure that your home has a safe haven, a secure area with reinforced barriers, where you can retreat and remain safe if intruders enter.

Residents in Arusha and Dar es Salaam strongly recommend retaining a professional security company with 24-hour guards and roving patrols. If you have access to a house alarm, use it.

Carjackings: To avoid carjackings:

Drive with doors locked and windows rolled up.

Do not to stop in unpopulated areas.

Travel in convoys if possible.

Be wary of drivers of stopped cars flagging motorists down for assistance.

Dar es Salaam: Be very careful in the Coco Beach area of Touré Drive on Msasani Peninsula, the scenic beachfront road leading from the Sea Cliff Hotel into town. The U.S. Embassy receives regular reports of muggings, pick-pockets, and thefts from cars. This road is a concern any time of day or night, whether you are on foot or in a vehicle.

Walking or jogging on the streets at any time can be hazardous because motorists can be careless, pathways abruptly end, and there are frequently no shoulders.

U.S. government personnel are cautioned against walking or running along Touré Drive and Haile Selassie Road on the Msasani Peninsula due to the prevalence of assaults, and are advised to avoid the area after dark. Avoid areas where there aren't houses or buildings on both sides of the road as assailants like to hide in areas covered by brush. Be cautious about walking on paths near the water, as serious erosion has degraded the soil.

Zanzibar: Beware of pickpockets, assaults, and bag snatching in Zanzibar. Wear modest dress and keep a low profile, especially on Friday afternoons, the traditional time to attend mosque.

Arusha: In Arusha, the high number of foreign tourists attracts pickpockets and bag snatchers. You are strongly discouraged from walking around at dusk or at night, and to avoid the section of Arusha on the far side of the Themi River at all times when on foot. Many muggings have occurred near the clock tower in the center of town.

Tanga: Criminals use the Amboni Caves north of Tanga City to hide from authorities. Police and military perform raid operations to apprehend criminal suspects in the cave system. Additionally, armed robberies in the shopping establishments of the Mzizima Ward of Tanga Rural District have increased.

Mwanza: Violence and attacks by armed groups in and around the city of Mwanza have increased. You should remain alert and avoid large gatherings when travelling to Mwanza.

Pwani coastal region: Following an uptick in violence in April 2017, Tanzanian authorities have increased their security presence in the Pwani coastal region, about 100km south of Dar es Salaam. Additional checkpoints are in place, particularly on highways and in towns.

The police also announced that the use of motorcycles is banned at night throughout the region beginning at 6:00 p.m.

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should report crimes to the local police at 111 and contact the U.S. Embassy at 255 22 229 4122 and at 255 22 229 4000, dial ‘1’ for an emergency operator.

Some police stations in Dar es Salaam (such as Oysterbay and Selander Bridge) offer a special desk for tourists to report crimes. However, they have limited daytime hours. In general, police stations may not have an English-speaker available or be staffed to make a written report even during opening hours.

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

Call us in Washington at 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Photography: Photographing military installations is forbidden. Individuals have been detained and/or had their cameras and film confiscated for taking pictures of hospitals, schools, bridges, industrial sites, and airports. Sites where photography is prohibited are not always marked.

Animal products: In Tanzania, it is illegal to export an animal or animal part (including live or dead animal parts, such as skins and bones, feathers, or shells) without export certification from the Tanzanian government. It is also illegal to export any such products received as a gift or exchange without the correct documentation. The penalties can range from a fine and/or two to five years imprisonment. Additionally, it is illegal to gather, collect, or remove any flora or fauna, including seashells, from marine parks. Penalties include a fine and/or imprisonment of up to two years.

Safaris: Remember, these are wild animals. Their reflexes and reaction times are quicker than those of trained guides. Critically review and assess the protection measures offered by safari companies. Stay in vehicles or protected enclosures when in game parks.

If you have chronic health problems, consider the risks before joining an extended trip in the African wilderness where emergency medical help is not readily available.

Mountains:

Know the signs of altitude sickness.

Heed the advice of the professionals organizing the ascent.

Don't try to save money by selecting a tour guide who offers a faster ascent - your body needs the extra day(s) to acclimate to the altitude.

What to Wear: While visiting Tanzania, you should dress modestly (upper arms and legs covered and no exposed midriffs) outside of the hotel or resort and when arriving and departing from Zanzibar.

Ramadan: During the holy month of Ramadan, when Muslims fast during daylight hours, avoid eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum in public except in hotels or restaurants.

Scams: U.S. citizens have been victims of scams involving the alleged sale of gold, diamonds, gemstones, minerals, and other natural resources. You should be very cautious of seemingly lucrative business opportunities offered by agents based in, or with ties to, Tanzania and neighboring countries.

There are also scams involving offers to arrange volunteer visas and safari excursions. Vet anyone offering to provide you such a service and check their references carefully.

LGBTI Rights: Consensual same-sex activity is illegal both on the mainland and on Zanzibar, and is punishable by long prison sentences. Members of the LGBTI community may not be admitted to Tanzania by immigration authorities and once here may be targeted, harassed, and/or charged with unrelated offenses. Public displays of affection between persons of the same sex may be met with harassment or violence. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that support the LGBTI community and their staff may also be targeted and harassed by local authorities.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: While in Tanzania, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from the United States. Sidewalks are nearly non-existent and there are frequent power outages. The Tanzanian constitution prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities.

Women Travelers: Hire only legitimate tour guides, preferably arranged by a known travel agency or hotel. Be wary of offers of sightseeing from new contacts and avoid being alone with strangers who propose special, customized sightseeing trips. Practice common sense and remain vigilant regarding your surroundings.

If you are the victim of sexual assault, see your doctor immediately to ask about the availability of post-exposure HIV prophylaxis or seek medical care outside of Tanzania if needed.

Road Conditions and Safety: Road travel in Tanzania can be extremely dangerous, especially at night. Traffic in Tanzania moves on the left. Drivers and pedestrians alike must maintain vigilance. Although a number of inter-city highways are periodically repaved and maintained, maintenance schedules are erratic and even good roads may deteriorate precipitously in periods of inclement weather.

During the rainy seasons (late March to mid-June and mid-November to mid-December), many roads in Tanzania, both urban and rural, are passable only with four-wheel-drive vehicles.

Traffic Laws:Tanzanian law requires all motor vehicle operators to be in possession of a valid driver’s license. Persons staying in Tanzania for six months or less may use a valid U.S. driver’s license after validation by local traffic authorities, or an international driver’s license. Persons intending to remain in Tanzania for more than six months are required to obtain a Tanzanian driver’s license. All vehicles are required to carry third-party liability insurance and to post the decal in the front window.

Public Transportation: Use taxis or hire a driver from a reputable source. When traveling by taxi:

Do not ride in a taxi hailed by someone you do not know.

Ask the hotel or restaurant to recommend a driver. Before entering the vehicle, ask the driver to see their credentials, take a picture of the taxi license plates, and send the photo to a friend.

Make sure the child locks are not engaged and the door can be opened from the inside.

After entering, lock the doors and roll up the windows. If the driver unlocks the doors or rolls down the windows, exit immediately.

Do not ride in taxis already carrying a passenger. If a taxi stops to allow another person to enter, exit immediately.

Inter-city transportation between major destinations, such as Arusha and Dar es Salaam, are serviced by a variety of carriers. You should select carriers with modern equipment.

Travelers should also avoid using dala-dala microbuses and bajaji, three-wheeled taxis.

Ferries traveling between the mainland and Zanzibar may be unsafe. When traveling by ferry:

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Tanzania, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Tanzania'sCivil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA's safety assessment page.

DISCLAIMER

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND MAY NOT BE TOTALLY ACCURATE IN A SPECIFIC CASE. QUESTIONS INVOLVING INTERPRETATION OF SPECIFIC FOREIGN LAWS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE APPROPRIATE FOREIGN AUTHORITIES OR FOREIGN COUNSEL.

For information concerning travel to Tanzania, including information about the location of the U.S. Embassy, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, entry/exit requirements, safety and security, crime, medical facilities and health information, traffic safety, road conditions and aviation safety, please see country-specific information for Tanzania.

The U.S. Department of State reports statistics and compliance information for individual countries in the Annual Report on International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA). The report is located here.

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Hague Abduction Convention

Tanzania is not a signatory to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (Hague Abduction Convention), nor are there any bilateral agreements in force between Tanzania and the United States concerning international parental child abduction.

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Return

Legal systems and laws pertaining to custody, divorce, and parental abduction vary widely from country to country. Parents are encouraged to consult with an attorney who specializes in family law in Tanzania and who can provide accurate legal guidance that is specific to their circumstances.

The Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, Directorate for Overseas Citizens Services, Office of Children’s Issues provides assistance in cases of international parental child abduction. For U.S. citizen parents whose children have been wrongfully removed to or retained in countries that are not U.S. partners under the Hague Abduction Convention, the Office of Children’s Issues can provide information and resources about country-specific options for pursuing the return of or access to an abducted child. The Office of Children’s Issues may also coordinate with appropriate foreign and U.S. government authorities about the welfare of abducted U.S. citizen children. Parents are strongly encouraged to contact the Department of State for assistance.

Contact information:

United States Department of State
Bureau of Consular Affairs
Office of Children's
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Telephone: 1-888-407-4747
Outside the United States or Canada: 1-202-501-4444Website
Email: AskCI@state.gov

Parental child abduction is only considered a crime by Tanzanian law enforcement authorities if it occurs in contravention of a court order forbidding the removal of the child from Tanzania.

Parents may wish to consult with an attorney in the United States and in the country to which the child has been removed or retained to learn more about how filing criminal charges may impact a custody case in the foreign court. Please see Possible Solutions - Pressing Criminal Charges for more information.

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Visitation/Access

Legal systems and laws pertaining to custody, divorce, and parental abduction vary widely from country to country. Parents are encouraged to consult with an attorney who specializes in family law in Tanzania and who can provide accurate legal guidance that is specific to their circumstances.

The Office of Children’s Issues may be able to assist parents seeking access to children who have been wrongfully removed from or retained outside the United States. Parents who are seeking access to children who were not wrongfully removed from or retained outside the United States should contact the appropriate U.S. Embassy for information and possible assistance.

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Retaining an Attorney

Neither the Office of Children’s Issues nor consular officials at the U.S. Embassy in Tanzania are authorized to provide legal advice.

The U.S. Embassy in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania posts a list of attorneys, including those who specialize in family law.

This list is provided as a courtesy service only and does not constitute an endorsement of any individual attorney. The Department of State assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or the quality of services provided by, the following persons or firms. Professional credentials and areas of expertise are provided directly by the lawyers.

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Mediation

We are not aware of any governmental or non-governmental entities that provide mediation services.

Exercising Custody Rights

While travelling in a foreign country, you are subject to the laws of that country. It is important for parents to understand that, although a left-behind parent in the United States may have custody or visitation rights pursuant to a U.S. custody order, that order may not be valid and enforceable in the country in which the child is located. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to speak to a local attorney if planning to remove a child from a foreign country without the consent of the other parent. Attempts to remove your child to the United States may:

Endanger your child and others;

Prejudice any future judicial efforts; and

Could result in your arrest and imprisonment.

The U.S. government cannot interfere with another country’s court or law enforcement system.

To understand the legal effect of a U.S. order in a foreign country, a parent should consult with a local attorney in the country in which the child is located.

For information about hiring an attorney abroad, see our section on Retaining a Foreign Attorney.

Although we cannot recommend an attorney to you, most U.S. Embassies have lists of attorneys available online. Please visit the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for a full listing.

For more information on consular assistance for U.S. citizens arrested abroad, please see our website.

Country officers are available to speak with you Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For assistance with an abduction in progress or any emergency situation that occurs after normal business hours, on weekends, or federal holidays, please call toll free at 1-888-407-4747. See all contact information.

DISCLAIMER: The information in this flyer is provided for general information only, is not intended to be legal advice, and may change without notice. Questions involving interpretation of law should be addressed to an attorney licensed in the relevant jurisdiction.

Hague Convention Participation

Hague Adoption Convention Country?

No

Are Intercountry Adoptions between this country and the United States possible?

Intercountry adoptions to the United States from Tanzania and from the United States to Tanzania are possible.

Is this country a U.S. Hague Partner?

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Hague Convention Information

Tanzania is not a party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption(Hague Adoption Convention or Convention). Under the Intercountry Adoption Universal Accreditation Act of 2012 (UAA), which became effective on July 14, 2014, the requirement that adoption service providers be accredited or approved, and therefore meet the accreditation standards, which previously only applied in Convention cases, now also applies in non-Convention (“orphan”) cases under section 101(b)(1)(F) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). The UAA requires that an accredited or approved adoption service provider act as the primary provider in every Convention or non-Convention intercountry adoption case, and that adoption service providers providing any adoption services, as defined at 22 CFR Part 96.2, on behalf of prospective adoptive parents be accredited or approved, or be a supervised or exempted provider. See additional guidance for limited situations when a primary provider may not be required. Intercountry adoptions of children from non-Convention countries continue to be processed under the Orphan Process with the filing of the Forms I-600A and I-600. However, adoption service providers should be aware of the information on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website on the impact of the UAA on Form I-600A and Form I-600 adjudications, including the requirement that all home studies, including home study updates and amendments, comply with the home study requirements listed at 8 CFR 204.311, which differ from the orphan home study requirements that were in effect before July 14, 2014.

Prospective adoptive parents must either be Tanzanian citizens or resident in Tanzania for three consecutive years before seeking to adopt. There are separate laws governing adoption for mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar. Mainland Tanzania adoption law is outlined in Part VI of Tanzania’s 2009 Law of the Child. In Zanzibar, the adoption law is under part VIII of the Zanzibar Children’s Act, 2011. Prospective adoptive parents are cautioned that adoptions are allowed in Zanzibar, but the prospective adoptive parent must submit a joint application with a Tanzanian citizen who is resident in Zanzibar. For further information, see Section 83 of the Zanzibar Children’s Act.

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Who Can Adopt

In addition to being found suitable and eligible to adopt by USCIS, prospective adoptive parents seeking to adopt a child from Tanzania must meet the following requirements:

Minimum Residency: Prospective adoptive parent(s) must be Tanzanian residents for at least three consecutive years to adopt a child from Tanzania unless they are Tanzanian citizens. The Tanzanian Office of Social Welfare considers a person to be resident if that person holds a Resident Permit (Class A, B or C), a Dependent's Pass, or an Exemption Permit, and lives in Tanzania. This residency requirement may be waived in cases where the applicant is a Tanzanian citizen or the High Court of Tanzania determines an adoption by non-Tanzanians to be “in the best interests of the child” (Tanzania Law of the Child, Article 74, Section 2).

Age of Adopting Parents: A prospective adoptive parent (or one of the prospective adoptive parents in the case of a joint application) must be at least 25 years old and at least 21 years older than the child to be adopted. If the prospective adoptive parent is a relative of the child, he or she must be at least 25 years old, but there is no requirement regarding the minimum age difference between the prospective adoptive parent and the prospective adoptee.

Marriage: Married heterosexual couples may adopt from Tanzania. If one spouse applies for an adoption order, the other spouse must consent. Single women who are Tanzanian citizens may adopt. A single man with Tanzanian citizenship may only adopt a child if the child is his biological son (or biological daughter if the court is satisfied that special circumstances warrant the order..

Minimum Income: Prospective adoptive parents are required to have sufficient funds to be able to take care of their adoptive child.

Other Requirements: There are no additional requirements.

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Who Can Be Adopted

Under the INA 101(b)(1)(F), a child can be considered an orphan because of the death or disappearance of, abandonment or desertion by, or separation or loss from both parents, or in the case where there is a sole or surviving parent who is incapable of providing the proper care and has in writing irrevocably released the child for emigration and adoption.

In addition to qualifying as an orphan under U.S. immigration law, the child must also meet the following requirements of Tanzania:

Eligibility for adoption: Relinquishment: The District Social Welfare Officer will work with the police departments to confirm whether a child relinquished has any living relatives. In circumstances where family members are located, formal written consent from the family must be obtained before the child is released for adoption.

Abandonment: In circumstances where no living relatives can be located, the police department will issue a Certificate of Abandonment. The certificate is needed for the adoption to be completed.

Age of Adoptive Child: Children 14 years of age or older must consent to the adoption, if capable of providing consent.Please note that for a child to meet the definition of an orphan under U.S. immigration law, a Form I-600, Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative, must be filed on the child’s behalf while the child is under the age of 16 (or under the age of 18 if the child is the birth sibling of another adopted child who meets the age requirements and immigrated or will immigrate as an orphan based on adoption by the same adoptive parent(s)). Please see the USCIS website for special rules on filing dates for children aged 15-16 or siblings aged 17-18.

Caution: Prospective adoptive parents should be aware that not all children in orphanages or children’s homes are eligible for adoption. In many countries, birth parents place their child(ren) temporarily in an orphanage or children’s home due to financial or other hardship, intending that the child return home when possible. In such cases, the birth parent(s) have rarely relinquished their parental rights or consented to the adoption of their child(ren).

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How to Adopt

Tanzania’s Adoption Authority

Department of Social Welfare

The Process

The process for adopting a child from Tanzania generally includes the following steps:

1. Choose a U.S. Accredited or Approved Adoption Service Provider To Act as Your Primary Provider

2. Apply to USCIS to be Found Suitable and Eligible to Adopt (Form I-600A)

3. Apply to Tanzania’s Authorities to Adopt, and to be Matched with a Child

4. Adopt the Child in Tanzania

5. Apply for Your Child to be Found Eligible to Immigrate to the United States as an Orphan

6. Apply for a U.S. Immigrant Visa for Your Child and Bring Your Child Home

1. Choose a U.S. Accredited or Approved Adoption Service Provider to Act as Your Primary Provider

Before taking steps to adopt a child from Tanzania, you should select a U.S. accredited or approved adoption service provider to be the primary provider in your case. Your primary provider is responsible for:

Ensuring that all six adoption services defined at 22 CFR 96.2 are provided consistent with applicable laws and regulations;

Supervising and being responsible for any supervised providers, and otherwise complying with the requirements regarding the provision of adoption services using other providers. (see 22 CFR 96.14); and

Developing and implementing a service plan in accordance with 22 CFR 96.44.

In order to adopt a child from Tanzania, you will need to meet the requirements of the Government and laws of Tanzania and U.S. immigration law.

To meet U.S. immigration requirements, you may choose to file a Form I-600A, Application for Advance Processing of an Orphan Petition, with USCIS, to be found suitable and eligible to adopt. If you have already identified the child you wish to adopt, you may also choose to file the Form I-600 petition for the child and include all the required supporting documentation for the Form I-600A application (i.e. an approved home study) so USCIS can make a determination on your suitability and eligibility to adopt before revieiwing the child’s eligibility as an orphan. Please see the USCIS website for more information about filing options. Unless an exception applies, the home study must be prepared by a person who is authorized under 22 CFR 96 to prepare home studies and must comply with the requirements in 8 CFR 204.311.

3. Apply to Tanzania’s Authorities to Adopt, and be Matched with a Child

If you are found suitable and eligible to adopt under U.S. immigration law, Tanzania requires you to submit an adoption application to the Department of Social Welfare of Tanzania to be found eligible to adopt by Tanzania.

To apply to adopt from Tanzania, you will need to:

Contact the District Social Welfare Office to obtain the application form to foster a child. If the office is not in your district, then reach out to the Regional Social Welfare Office.

Complete the foster care application form. Provide contact details of at least three references who have known you for at least three years and one family reference. If you cannot provide local references, then provide references from the United States. The District Social Welfare Officer will coordinate with International Social Services to interview references outside of Tanzania.

Arrange with the District Social Welfare Office to begin the home study process. This consists of at least four interviews by the District Social Welfare Officer, including at least one visit to the family's home.

The District Social Welfare Office forwards the application, home study, and other paperwork to the Commissioner for Social Welfare for review and approval.

The competent adoption authority or other authorized entity in Tanzania will review your adoption dossier and, if an appropriate match is found, may provide you with a referral. We encourage families to consider consulting with a medical professional and their adoption service provider to understand the needs of the specific child, but you must decide for yourself whether you will be able to meet the needs of, and provide a permanent home for a specific child. You must also ultimately adhere to the USCIS’ suitability determination (i.e. typically the Form I-600A approval notice) with respect to the number of children you are approved to adopt and the characteristics of the child(ren) (such as age, gender, nationality, and/or special need, disability, and/or impairment) that you are approved to adopt. Learn more about Health Considerations.

The child must be eligible to be adopted according to Tanzania’s requirements, as described in the Who Can Be Adopted section. The child must also meet the definition of an orphan under U.S. immigration law.

4. Adopt the Child in Tanzania

The process for finalizing the adoption in Tanzania generally includes the following:

Role of Adoption Authority or Competent Authority: Tanzania’s Adoption Authority is the Office of Social Welfare.The District Social Welfare Officer, who is supervised by the Commissioner of Social Welfare, evaluates prospective adoptive parents to determine suitability and eligibility to adopt under Tanzanian law, takes certain steps when a child is relinquished to government authorities, oversees the fostering and pre-adoption period as the child’s guardian ad litem, and makes recommendations regarding the suitability of specific child placements.

Role of the Court: The Tanzanian High Court approves the legal adoption of a child. If the child has been in your continuous care for the immediate six months prior and you meet the other requirements for the High Court to approve the adoption, the court will decide whether to issue an adoption order.

Role of Accredited or Approved Adoption Service Providers: Starting July 14, 2014, unless an exception applies, there must be a U.S. accredited or approved adoption service provider acting as the primary provider in every case. Also, any agency or person providing an adoption service on behalf of prospective adoptive parents in any Convention or non-Convention case must be accredited or approved, or be a supervised or exempted provider.

Adoption service means any one of the following six services:

Identifying a child for adoption and arranging an adoption;

Securing the necessary consent to termination of parental rights and to adoption;

Performing a background study on a child or a home study on a prospective adoptive parent(s), and reporting on such a study;

Making non-judicial determinations of the best interests of a child and the appropriateness of an adoptive placement for the child;

Monitoring a case after a child has been placed with prospective adoptive parent(s) until final adoption; or

When necessary because of a disruption before final adoption, assuming custody and providing (including facilitating the provision of) child care or any other social service pending an alternative placement. 22 CFR 96.2 Definitions.

Though U.S. adoption service providers are the primary providers in intercountry adoption cases for U.S. purposes, you will also need to hire a local attorney to file an adoption case with the High Court.

Note: See additional guidance for limited situations when a primary provider may not be required.

Adoption Application: You will need to apply to the District Social Welfare Office to be found suitable and eligible to adopt, and your local attorney will apply to the High Court for the adoption, after the match is officially approved by the Office of Social Welfare.

Time Frame: Intercountry adoptions in Tanzania may take approximately six months to complete from the time a dossier is accepted by the Office of Social Welfare to the time the final adoption is issued. This does not include the three year residency requirement for non-Tanzanian citizens.

Adoption Fees: Neither the courts nor the Office of Social Welfare charge for adoption services. Attorney fees may range from U.S. $500 – $2,000. Civil documents, such as birth certificates, can range from U.S. $10 – $30 for each document and passports are TSH 150,000 (roughly $70)

We encourage prospective adoptive parents to obtain detailed receipts for all fees and donations paid, either by them directly or through their U.S. adoption service provider, and to raise any concerns regarding any payment that you believe may be contrary to U.S. law, or the law of Tanzania, with your adoption service provider, and, when appropriate, through the Complaint Registry. Improper payments violate applicable law, or create the appearance of buying a child, and could put all future adoptions in Tanzania at risk. The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, for instance, makes it unlawful to make payments to foreign government officials to assist in obtaining or retaining business. Further, the UAA and IAA make certain actions relating to intercountry adoptions unlawful, and subject to civil and criminal penalties. These include offering, giving, soliciting, or accepting inducement by way of compensation intended to influence or affect the relinquishment of parental rights, parental consent relating to adoption of a child, or a decision by an entity performing functions as a competent authority, or to engage another person as an agent to take any such action.

If you have a valid Form I-600A approval, you may file your Form I-600 petition in the United States with the USCIS National Benefits Center or at the U.S.Embassy in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Please see the USCIS website for more information about filing options.

When a Form I-600 petition is adjudicated by USCIS in the United States, the consular section in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania must complete a Form I-604, Determination on Child for Adoption (sometimes informally referred to as an orphan determination), to verify the child’s orphan status. When a Form I-600 petition is adjudicated by an international USCIS office, USCIS generally completes the Form I-604 determination.

When a Form I-600 petition is filed with the Embassy’s consular section, the consular officer must complete the Form I-604, Determination on Child for Adoption, to verify the child’s orphan status. Conducting the Form I-604 determination is a critical part of the non-Convention adoption process. It can take months to complete, depending upon the circumstances of your case. Consular officers appreciate that families are eager to bring their adopted child home as quickly as possible. Some of the factors that may contribute to the length of the process include prevailing fraud patterns in the country of origin, civil unrest or security concerns that restrict travel to certain areas of the country, and the number of determinations performed by available staff. Consular officers make every effort to conduct them as quickly and thoroughly as possible. You are advised to keep your travel plans flexible while awaiting the results.

Once your adoption is complete and the Form I-604 determination has been completed, finding that your child meets the legal definition of an orphan for immigration purposes, you need to apply for three documents before your child can travel to the United States:

Birth Certificate

You will need to obtain a birth certificate for your child.

If you have finalized the adoption in Tanzania, you will first need to apply for a new birth certificate for your child. Your name will be added to the new birth certificate.

If you have been granted legal custody for the purposes of emigration and adoption of the child in the United States, the birth certificate you obtain will, in most cases, not yet include your name.

Your attorney will take the adoption order to the civil registry (RITA) and request an adoption certificate listing your name(s) as the parent(s) of the child.

Tanzania Passport

Your child is not yet a U.S. citizen, so he/she will need a travel document or passport from Tanzania.

You or your attorney may apply for your child’s Tanzanian passport at the Immigration office by presenting the adoption certificate and any other documents they require for processing, such as your identification.

U.S. Immigrant Visa

After you obtain the new birth certificate and passport for your child and you have filed Form I-600, you then need to apply for a U.S. immigrant visa for your child from the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam. This immigrant visa allows your child to travel home with you As part of this process, you must provide the consular officer with the Panel Physician’s medical report on the child.

Before coming for your child’s immigrant visa interview, please complete an Electronic Immigrant Visa Application (DS-260) online at the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC).If you filed a Form I-600 petition in the United States, you should receive a letter from the National Visa Center (NVC) confirming receipt of the petition and assignment of a case number and an invoice ID number. You will need this information to log into CEAC to file the DS-260 for your child. You should fill out these forms in your child's name. Answer every item on the form. If information is not applicable, please write “N/A” in the block. Print and bring the DS-260 confirmation page to the visa interview. Review the DS-260 FAQs, our Online Immigrant Visa Forms page, or contact NVC at NVCAdoptions@state.gov or +1-603-334-0700 if you have questions about completing the online DS-260 form.

Please note that the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam processes immigrant visas for non-U.S. citizens located in Tanzania. Additional information concerning immigrant visa processing at the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam can be found on the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam’s website.

Upon receipt of the case at post, the Consular Section generally notifies the petitioner. Visa issuance after the final interview generally takes 24 hours. It is not usually possible to provide the visa to adoptive parents on the same day as the immigrant visa interview. You should verify current processing times with the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam before making final travel arrangements. Additional information on immigrant visa processing can be found on our website.

Child Citizenship Act

For adoptions finalized abroad prior to the child’s admission into the United States: An adopted child residing in the United States in the legal and physical custody of the U.S. citizen parent pursuant to a lawful admission for permanent residence generally will acquire U.S. citizenship automatically upon admission into the United States if the child otherwise meets the requirements of the Child Citizenship Act of 2000, including that the child is under the age of eighteen.

For adoptions finalized after the child’s admission into the United States: You will need to complete an adoption following your child’s admission into the United States and before the child turns eighteen for the child (if he or she otherwise meets the requirements of the Child Citizenship Act of 2000) to automatically acquire U.S. citizenship.

U.S. citizens are required to enter and depart the United States on a valid U.S. passport. Once your child acquires U.S. citizenship, s/he will need a U.S. passport for international travel. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.

Getting or renewing a passport is easy. The Department of State’s Passport Application Wizard will help you determine which passport form you need, help you to complete the form online, estimate your payment, and generate the form for you to print all in one place.

Obtaining a Visa to Travel to Tanzania

In addition to a U.S. passport, you may also need to obtain a visa. Where required, visas are affixed to your passport and allow you to enter a foreign nation. To find information about obtaining a visa for Tanzania, see the Department of State’s Country Specific Information.

Staying Safe on Your Trip

Before you travel, it is always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country. The Department of State provides Country-Specific Information for every country in the world about various issues, including health conditions, crime, currency or entry requirements, and any areas of instability.

Staying in Touch on Your Trip

When traveling abroad during the adoption process, we encourage you to enroll with the Department of State through our Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive important information from the Embassy about safety conditions in your destination country. Enrollment makes it possible for the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Tanzania, to contact you in an emergency, whether natural disaster, civil unrest, or family emergency. Whether there is a family emergency in the United States or a crisis in Tanzania, enrollment assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you.

Tanzanian law requires foreign adoptive parents to notify the Commissioner of the Office of Social Welfare of their intent to remove an adopted child from Tanzania on a permanent basis after the adoption. The penalties for not doing so include sizeable fines (U.S. $6,000 – $30,000) and/or imprisonment (for six months to two years).

If a family has custody of the child and only an interim adoption order, then the family must seek the consent of the High Court before removing the child from Tanzania.

We urge you to comply with Tanzania’s post-adoption/post-placement requirements in a timely manner. Your adoption service provider may be able to help you with this process. Your cooperation will contribute to Tanzania’s positive experiences with U.S. citizen adoptive parents.

Post-Adoption Resources

Many adoptive parents find it important to find support after the adoption. There are many public and private nonprofit post-adoption services available for children and their families. There are also numerous adoptive family support groups and adoptee organizations active in the United States that provide a network of options for adoptees who seek out other adoptees from the same country of origin. You may wish to take advantage of all the resources available to your family, whether it is another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services. Your primary provider can provide or point you to post- placement/post-adoption services to help your adopted child and your family transition smoothly and deal effectively with the many adjustments required in an intercountry adoptions.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services maintains a website, the Child Welfare Information Gateway, which can be a useful resource to get you started on your support group search.

COMPLAINTS

If you have concerns about your intercountry adoption process, we ask that you share this information with the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam, particularly if it involves possible fraud or misconduct specific to your child’s case. The Department of State takes all allegations of fraud or misconduct seriously. Our Adoption Comment Page provides several points of contact for adoptive families to comment on their adoption service provider, their experience applying for their child’s visa, or about the Form I-600/A process.

The Complaint Registry is an internet based registry for filing complaints about U.S. accredited or approved adoption service providers. If you think your provider's conduct may not have been in compliance with accreditation standards, first submit your complaint in writing directly to your provider. If the complaint is not resolved through the provider's complaint process, you may file the complaint through the Complaint Registry.

Reciprocity Schedule

Select a visa category below to find the visa issuance fee,
number of entries, and validity period for visas issued to applicants from this country*/area of authority.

Explanation of Terms

Visa Classification: The type of nonimmigrant visa you are applying for.

Fee: The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).

Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.

Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.

The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:

A-1

A-2

G-1 through G-4

NATO 1 through NATO 6

An E-1 and E-2 visa may be issued only to a principal alien who is a national of a country having a treaty, or its equivalent, with the United States. E-1 and E-2 visas may not be issued to a principal alien if he/she is a stateless resident. The spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 principal alien are accorded derivative E-1 or E-2 status following the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the principle alien’s country of nationality.

Example: John Doe is a national of the country of Z that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. His wife and child are nationals of the country of Y which has no treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the same reciprocity as Mr. Doe, the principal visa holder.

The validity of H-1 through H-3, O-1 and O-2, P-1 through P-3, and Q visas may not exceed the period of validity of the approved petition or the number of months shown, whichever is less.

Under 8 CFR §214.2, H-2A and H-2B petitions may generally only be approved for nationals of countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated as participating countries. The current list of eligible countries is available on USCIS's website for both H-2A and H-2B visas. Nationals of countries not on this list may be the beneficiary of an approved H-2A or H2-B petition in limited circumstances at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security if specifically named on the petition.

Derivative H-4, L-2, O-3, and P-4 visas, issued to accompanying or following-to-join spouses and children, may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the principal alien.

There is no reciprocity fee for the issuance of a J visa if the alien is a United States Government grantee or a participant in an exchange program sponsored by the United States Government.

Also, there is no reciprocity fee for visa issuance to an accompanying or following-to-join spouse or child (J-2) of an exchange visitor grantee or participant.

In addition, an applicant is eligible for an exemption from the MRV fee if he or she is participating in a State Department, USAID, or other federally funded educational and cultural exchange program (program serial numbers G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-7).

However, all other applicants with U.S. Government sponsorships, including other J-visa applicants, are subject to the MRV processing fee.

Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nationals coming to engage in certain types of professional employment in the United States may be admitted in a special nonimmigrant category known as the "trade NAFTA" or "TN" category. Their dependents (spouse and children) accompanying or following to join them may be admitted in the "trade dependent" or "TD" category whether or not they possess Canadian or Mexican nationality. Except as noted below, the number of entries, fees and validity for non-Canadian or non-Mexican family members of a TN status holder seeking TD visas should be based on the reciprocity schedule of the TN principal alien.

Canadian Nationals

Since Canadian nationals generally are exempt from visa requirement, a Canadian "TN' or "TD" alien does not require a visa to enter the United States. However, the non-Canadian national dependent of a Canadian "TN", unless otherwise exempt from the visa requirement, must obtain a "TD" visa before attempting to enter the United States. The standard reciprocity fee and validity period for all non-Canadian "TD"s is no fee, issued for multiple entries for a period of 36 months, or for the duration of the principal alien's visa and/or authorized period of stay, whichever is less. See 'NOTE' under Canadian reciprocity schedule regarding applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality.

Mexican Nationals

Mexican nationals are not visa-exempt. Therefore, all Mexican "TN"s and both Mexican and non-Mexican national "TD"s accompanying or following to join them who are not otherwise exempt from the visa requirement (e.g., the Canadian spouse of a Mexican national "TN") must obtain nonimmigrant visas.

Applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality, who have a permanent resident or refugee status in Canada/Mexico, may not be accorded Canadian/Mexican reciprocity, even when applying in Canada/Mexico. The reciprocity fee and period for "TD" applicants from Libya is $10.00 for one entry over a period of 3 months. The Iranian and Iraqi "TD" is no fee with one entry over a period of 3 months.

Q-2 (principal) and Q-3 (dependent) visa categories are in existence as a result of the 'Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998'. However, because the Department anticipates that virtually all applicants for this special program will be either Irish or U.K. nationals, the Q-2 and Q-3 categories have been placed only in the reciprocity schedules for those two countries. Q-2 and Q-3 visas are available only at the Embassy in Dublin and the Consulate General in Belfast.

No S visa may be issued without first obtaining the Department's authorization.

V-2 and V-3 status is limited to persons who have not yet attained their 21st birthday. Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.

Posts may not issue a T-1 visa. A T-1 applicant must be physically present in the United States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or a U.S. port of entry, where he/she will apply for an adjustment of status to that of a T-1. The following dependents of a T-1 visa holder, however, may be issued a T visa at a U.S. consular office abroad:

T-2 (spouse)

T-3 (child)

T-4 (parent)

The validity of NATO-5 visas may not exceed the period of validity of the employment contract or 12 months, whichever is less.

The validity of CW-1 and CW-2 visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (12 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.

The validity of E-2C visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (24 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.

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General Documents

Please check back for update.

Birth, Death, Burial Certificates

Mainland

Birth Certificates

Available. Certificates of birth can be obtained from the Register General of Births and Deaths, P.O. Box 9183, Dar es Salaam, for births since April 1921. Registration 5 years or more after birth involves a lengthy process, at times including hearings. A nonresident may find this process extremely difficult.

Death Certificates

Available. (See Birth Certificate).

Zanzibar and Pemba

Birth Certificates

Available. Birth certificates are obtainable from the Registrar General of Births and Deaths, P.O. Box 260, Zanzibar.

Death Certificates

Available. Death certificate are obtainable from the Registrar General of Births and Deaths, P.O. Box 260, Zanzibar.

Marriage, Divorce Certificates

Mainland

Marriage Certificates

Available. Marriage certificates can be obtained for all civil marriages and other marriages contracted after May 1971 (marriage not registered prior to 1971). Certificates are issued by the Registrar of Marriages, P.O. Box 9183, Dar es Salaam. For a marriage contracted under customary law prior to May 1971, the marriage certificate is obtainable from a church or religious institution. In cases where such a certificate is unavailable, the marriage can be registered with the Registrar of Marriages and a certificate obtained. Since it may not be possible for nonresidents to comply, an affidavit by two persons who witnessed the marriage may be accepted.

Divorce Certificates

Available. Certified copies of divorce decrees can be obtained from the Registrar, High Court, P.O. Box 9004, Dar es Salaam. For divorces prior to May 1971 and which took place outside the Courts under customary procedures, divorce certificates may be available from churches or communal organizations. In the absence of such a certificate, an affidavit by two persons who witnessed the divorce may be considered. Divorce certificate also issued by the Registrar of Marriages, P.O. Box 9183, Dar es Salaam.

Zanzibar and Pemba

Marriage Certificates

Available. Certificates of marriage can be obtained, from the Registrar General of Births and Deaths, P.O. Box 260, Zanzibar. However, since many Zanzibar Asians are registered only with their own religious community, the marriage certificate of the particular community is considered valid for legal purposes.

Divorce Certificates

Available. Divorce certificates are issued by the Registrar General of Births and Deaths, P.O. Box 260, Zanzibar.

Adoption Certificates

Available. Certificate of Adoption can be obtained from the Registrar of Births and Deaths, P.O. Box 9183, Dar es Salaam.

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Identity Card

Certificate of Identity

Available. Certificates of identity are obtainable from the Principal Immigration Officer, P.O. Box 512, Dar es Salaam. This document is issued only to persons who are unable to obtain a passport.

Police, Court, Prison Records

Mainland

Police Records

Available. To obtain a certificate of good conduct for mainland Tanzania, applicants residing outside of Tanzania must send a complete set of fingerprints, together with a written request to the following address:

Submitted fingerprints should be taken by a local police official in the requestor's place of residence, and should bear an official stamp or seal. The official should verify the identity of the individual being fingerprinted with a passport or identification card, noting the details of the identifying document. The fee is U.S. $25.00 for a foreign national, or 2,000 Tanzanian shillings for a citizen of Tanzania.

Results are generally available within two weeks of application.

Police records for Zanzibar are separately maintained and must be requested from the following address:

Fees and application requirements are identical to those for Mainland Tanzania, above.

Court and Prison Records

Available. A certified copy of a court record can be obtained from the court of primary jurisdiction. Prison records may be obtained from Mkuu Wa Gereza La Ukonga, P.O. Box 9091, Dar es Salaam, giving name, dates of imprisonment and name of jail.

Zanzibar and Pemba

Court and Prison Records

Unavailable.

Military Records

Unavailable.

Passports & Other Travel Documents

Travel Document issued by the Tanzanian Passport Office meets the requirements of INA 101(a)(30). The travel document has a hard dark green cover with two black diagonal lines across the upper left corner, is printed in both Swahili and English, and contains 36 pages. It is valid for two years and may be extended. It is issued solely to provide a travel document and does not affect the holder's nationality.

Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.

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